Author: Vivian J. Paige

A former candidate, I've learned a lot about politics, both good and bad. I'd prefer more of the former and a lot less of the latter and I'm trying to do my part!

This week’s required reading

Ezra Klein of The Washington Post wrote a lengthy article on the economy. It's a really good read and brings into focus the state of the economy over the last few years and what lies ahead. It reinforces, at least for me, what Dr. Koch said in his State of the Region presentation last week. … Continue reading This week’s required reading →

For Mark Warner & Terry McAuliffe

Both of you are running around Virginia, trying to help Democratic candidates get elected in a tough year. Good for you. So you both need to be aware the next time you come to Norfolk just who your friends are. I now live in the 83rd as well, thanks to redistricting. I'm waiting for my … Continue reading For Mark Warner & Terry McAuliffe →

Friday fun: snowflake or raindrop?

Haven't had one of these in a while, but with ODU having "Fall Break" starting tomorrow, I'm ready for a bit of fun 😉 Of course, the IRS is going to keep me from enjoying it with the tax filing deadline 10 days away 😦 You Are a Snowflake You are a deeply emotional person. … Continue reading Friday fun: snowflake or raindrop? →

Strength in numbers

My latest op-ed appeared in The Virginian-Pilot Thursday. Tuesday's presentation on the State of the Region gave me an opportunity to write about a couple of things that I think are important. First, I've noticed economic terms being thrown around that a lot of folks seem to not understand. There is this presumption, for example, … Continue reading Strength in numbers →

Rally for Women’s Health Oct. 15

The Virginia Coalition to Protect Women's Health is hosting a rally on October 15 near the state Capitol in Richmond. Details:   Governor Bob McDonnell and Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli think they’re about to get away with restricting reproductive freedom in Virginia under the radar. On Saturday, October 15 in Richmond, women’s health advocates and … Continue reading Rally for Women’s Health Oct. 15 →

George Will is wrong

No, that's not news. But today he was more wrong that usual. In his article about Elizabeth Warren, reprinted in today's Virginian-Pilot, Will trots out more than his normal "liberals are bad" arguments. This line particularly got my blood flowing: Everyone knows that all striving occurs in a social context, so all attainments are conditioned … Continue reading George Will is wrong →

RIP Steve Jobs

I have never owned an Apple product. They simply never fit my lifestyle. Even so, I recognize the value of the vision of Steve Jobs. It was that vision which propelled others to mimic what his company sold, to try to out-do him. His vision became a catalyst for innovation. And for that, I am … Continue reading RIP Steve Jobs →

Report: Miller/Chohany candidates forum

The candidates in the 1st Senate district - incumbent Sen. John Miller and challenger Mickey Chohany - squared off Friday evening in Newport News. I arrived a little after the 6:30pm start time, thanks to the tunnel traffic. The event was already underway. The candidates took a variety of questions put forth by the event … Continue reading Report: Miller/Chohany candidates forum →

LWV-SHR announces candidate forums

The League of Women Voters of South Hampton Roads is sponsoring two candidate forums covering the contested races on the southside. On Monday, October 24, incumbent Del. Ron Villanueva and his challenger Adrianne Bennett in the 21st district will participate. The forum will be held at 6:30pm in the auditorium of Landstown High School (2001 … Continue reading LWV-SHR announces candidate forums →

Required reading

Anyone interested in local government should read this Vanity Fair article. Yes, it is long. Yes, it is worth it. And if you think it couldn't happen here, consider this and this.